In support of the Andrea Bocelli Foundation, an intimate and distinguished gathering was held in celebration of Veronica Bocelli’s birthday — honoring her leadership, elegance, and unwavering commitment to the foundation’s global humanitarian and educational initiatives.

Hosted by Alejandro Grimaldi and produced by Rose Thorn Productions, the private evening convened an esteemed circle of cultural leaders and philanthropists, including Andrea Bocelli, Veronica Bocelli, Alejandro Grimaldi, Evander Holyfield, Navan Twins, Rose Thorn, and Kavita Channé, alongside additional distinguished supporters united in advancing the foundation’s mission.

To kick off the evening’s food and wine experience, guests were welcomed through the vision and impact of the Andrea Bocelli Foundation, with an inspiring performance by students from Young Musicians Unite — a powerful tribute to the transformative reach of music education.

Following this moving opening, Andrea Bocelli delivered a breathtaking performance from a magnificent Steinway & Sons grand piano, setting a tone of emotional resonance and artistic excellence.

Guests then transitioned into a refined culinary and wine experience featuring Sip Channé, signature pours of Dobel Tequila, and The Only Caviar, complemented by an elevated dining presentation by Rosa Negra.

The candlelit atmosphere felt both grand and intimate — an evening where artistry, generosity, and community converged in meaningful support of the Andrea Bocelli Foundation.

The result was a celebration that transcended a birthday — a gathering defined by purpose, legacy, and enduring impact.

The 62nd Annual Coconut Grove Arts Festival, presented by First Horizon Bank, closed Presidents’ Day weekend with record-breaking sales, national attention, and collector momentum that reaffirmed its standing as one of the country’s most respected outdoor art events.

Fresh Talent, Powerful Sales

Forty percent of this year’s exhibiting artists were new to the festival, bringing fresh perspective and energy to the waterfront showcase. Across all three days, buying remained strong, with 95 percent of participating artists reporting they were very happy with their sales.

The weekend’s defining milestone was the official commemorative poster by Kenneth Kudulis. Sales reached an unprecedented $40,000, more than doubling the previous three-day average of $16,000. All proceeds directly support year-round art scholarships, funding access to arts education for emerging artists. Kudulis’ work now stands as the most successful poster in the festival’s six-decade history.

The festival’s influence extended beyond South Florida. The Mayor of Beverly Hills attended the event and met with Executive Director Camille Marchese to gain insight into the Grove’s sustainable, artist-centered model — a clear sign of the festival’s growing national stature.

Festival Winners

Awards were presented in signature Grove fashion: executive leadership and board members traveled booth to booth in golf carts, bagpipers in tow, personally congratulating each winner to the applause of festivalgoers.

Best in Show was awarded to Nathalia Toledo Barcia (Painting/Clay), who earned a perfect score of 30 from the judges along with a $5,000 prize.

Gold Ribbon recipients included Bobby Goldsmith (Drawing), Cali Hobgood (Photography), Carrie Pearce (Painting), Christopher Buonomo (Sculpture), Helen Gotlib (Printmaking), James Pearce (Wood), Kenneth Kudulis (Digital Art), Michael Hayes (Glass), Olga Nenazhivina (Drawing), and Oliver Hampel (Jewelry).

An additional 35 artists received Silver and Bronze ribbons and automatic invitations to return next year.

Beyond the Canvas

For the fifth consecutive year, Miami-based Loud And Live produced the festival, continuing its transformation through expanded programming and elevated guest experiences.

Festival partners added dimension throughout the weekend. NBC 6 South Florida and Telemundo 51 energized families with interactive activations, while Lincoln Motor Company and Ford Motor Company showcased their latest models across the festival footprint.

At The Stacks, presented by Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood, street artists transformed industrial shipping containers into bold works of art, including the striking “Mi Gente” mural by Carlos Solano and Paulina Guajardo. The space also served as a performance stage featuring KerreKe and Venezuelan-American violinist Daniela Padrón’s Latin GRAMMY®-winning Joropango, alongside programming from the Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts.

A Cultural Cornerstone

Produced annually over Presidents’ Day weekend, the festival features 285 juried artists along Coconut Grove’s scenic bayfront streets. Managed by the Coconut Grove Arts & Historical Association and supported by Miami-Dade County’s Department of Cultural Affairs, proceeds fund impactful year-round initiatives including scholarships for Florida International University and Miami-Dade high school students, the Visiting Artists Program, and the Next Generation Emerging Artist Program.

With record sales, national recognition, and unwavering community support, the 62nd Annual Coconut Grove Arts Festival once again solidified its role as a defining force on South Florida’s cultural calendar and a powerful champion for artists and arts education.

The Bass proved once again why its annual gala is among the most anticipated dates on the Miami art/social calendar. The Bass Ball: Kaleidoscopic brought out artists, fashion-forward philanthropists, socialites, and party people to honor the fabulous Cathy Vedovi—the collector and designer whose French roots and LA education have made her a true icon in our local arts scene.

The theme was “Kaleidoscopic,” inspired by the museum’s exhibition The Kaleidoscopic: Writing Histories Through the Collection. The evening reflected the multifaceted nature of storytelling through art, welcoming artists and art lovers into a richly layered visual experience. This wasn’t your average black-tie affair; the guests took the theme to heart with outfits that were pure creative genius. Everywhere you looked, there were bold prints, shimmering textures, and over the top accessories that turned the museum into a living, breathing art gallery.

Guests were immersed in lavish décor by Alejandro Muguerza, complemented by a dynamic lighting installation by artist MIKIHUMO that illuminated the museum’s façade and interior. Dinner by Le Basque was top-tier, as usual, but it was the outstanding music that really set the night apart. Things kicked off with smooth jazz by saxophonist Manuel Echazabal in the Social Assembly Lounge, giving everyone a chance to catch up in style.

But even before the dinner plates were cleared, the vibe shifted into high gear. The museum lobby transformed into the ultimate energetic dance party thanks to @DJCLAUDIOF aka Claudio Figueroa, the man behind the vibe at Casa Tua. He was on fire, spinning every genre imaginable—from global house beats to crowd-favorite anthems.

The music was so good it kept the gorgeous, fashion-focused crowd glued to the dance floor, keeping the energy electric well into the early morning hours. Let’s just say no one was ready to go once the “lights came on.”

All of the glam and fun supports a worthy cause, with proceeds going directly to the museum’s education programs and world-class exhibitions. Be sure to keep up with all of the happenings at the Bass on Instagram @thebassmoa and online at https://thebass.org.

Photos

Courtesy of the Bass Museum and World Red Eye.

An Evening of Compassion, the inaugural signature fundraising event for the Hope For Animals Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting homeless, injured and endangered animals, will host its inaugural event on January 27. Join community leaders, partners, and animal advocates at Toku Modern Asian to raise critical funds and awareness for animal welfare—while also supporting families facing hardship who are struggling to care for their beloved pets.

Guests will enjoy an elevated cocktail-style experience featuring meaningful connections, raffles, and impactful storytelling centered on compassion, collaboration, and community impact.

For more information visit:

https://hopeforanimalsfoundation.betterworld.org/events/benefiting-Hope-for-Animals-Foundation

Miami’s beloved nonprofit, Amigos For Kids, is bringing the holiday spirit back to Jose Martí Park on Sunday, December 14, for its 34th Annual Holiday Toy Drive—a cherished tradition that spreads joy to thousands of underserved children and families across South Florida.

What started more than three decades ago as a small community effort has grown into one of the region’s most heartwarming holiday celebrations. “Each year, our Toy Drive reminds us of the extraordinary power of compassion,” says Karina Pavone, President & CEO of Amigos For Kids. Thanks to the support of generous partners, volunteers, and donors, families can count on a magical day filled with gifts, treats, and unforgettable memories.

Board Chair Yosbel Ibarra shares that the event is much more than toys: “Every smile and every shared moment reinforces the work we do year-round to strengthen families and prevent child abuse and neglect.”

Pre-registered children will enjoy meeting Santa, picking out personalized gifts, and indulging in festive fun. Beyond the event, Amigos For Kids will deliver toys to partner organizations to ensure even more little ones experience the joy of the season.

This year’s Toy Drive is proudly supported by many community champions, including The Chariff Family, The Lowell & Betty Dunn Family Foundation, The Brunetti Foundation, FedEx, The Gloria Estefan Foundation, Miami HEAT Charitable Fund, and numerous local organizations and businesses.

Want to make a difference? You can donate toys, volunteer, or contribute online.

Learn more at amigosforkids.org and follow @AmigosForKids on Instagram, Facebook, and X.

One of Miami’s most highly anticipated parties, Amigos Night, manages to outdo itself every year and this year was no exception. On Saturday, October 18, The Hangar at Regatta Harbour in Coconut Grove was completely transformed for what can best be described as the party of the season.

The space shimmered with sequined tables, soft candlelight, and a sea of chic guests dressed to the nines. From the moment we arrived, the mood was pure celebration — laughter, dancing, and that signature Miami magic in the air. The open bar, courtesy of Bacardi USA, flowed freely all night long, keeping glasses full and spirits higher.

A stellar showcase of Miami’s top restaurants provided an eclectic selection of bites to suit every taste. But truth be told- it was tough to leave the dance floor long enough to grab a bite- because the music was THAT good! From the second Extasy hit the stage, it was over — the dance floor never emptied. The band was perfection, playing one crowd-pleaser after another until well after 1 a.m. A conga line snaked across the room on more than one occasion and friends, old and new, danced and sang with sheer joy.

Just when we were about to take a short break- around midnight, an explosion of confetti filled the air and showgirls took over the dance floor for the Hora Loca: pure, high-octane fun fueled by feathers, confetti, and wild energy!

Earlier in the evening, Karina Pavone, President & CEO of Amigos For Kids and Jorge A. Plasencia, Co-Founder & Chairman Emeritus, shared heartfelt thanks, reminding guests that every donation helps to strengthen families and protect children across Miami-Dade. Amigos Night was both a celebration and a statement — proof that Miami’s heart beats strongest when it’s dancing for a cause.

This remarkable evening was made possible by sponsors and culinary partners including—Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, Bacardi USA, Greenberg Traurig, Academica, ABS Imprint, Ford, Amazon, Banesco, Baptist Health, Goya, Telemundo, Jorge Luis Garcia, Larry Geller & Ingrid Hoffmann, Prestige Clinical Research, Ryder, and Supreme Twins Foundation. Dining sponsors included: Arcano, Bartaco, Bayshore Club, Bulla Gastrobar, Café La Carreta, Costazul Peruvian Cuisine, CrepeMaker, Edda’s Cake Designs, Glass and Vine, LA Sweetz, Mena Catering, Miami Dade College, Morton’s The Steakhouse, Night Owl Cookies, Ossobuco, Papa Johns Pizza, Pisco y Nazca, Sufrat Mediterranean Grill, Sushi Maki, The Tipsy Truffle, Vegan Vibess, and Versailles Cuban Restaurant.

Amigos Night is a perfect example of why Miami parties are in a league of their own — a whirlwind of style, soul, sparkle and dancing. Few events capture the city’s spirit with such flair: dazzling, dynamic, and utterly unforgettable.

To support and learn more about Amigos For Kids, visit: amigosforkids.org and follow @AmigosForKids on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter.